Wireless telecommunications devices; prohibits talking on such device unless in hands-free mode. (SB517)
Introduced By
Sen. Tommy Norment (R-Williamsburg) with support from co-patrons Sen. Harry Blevins (R-Chesapeake), and Sen. Patsy Ticer (D-Alexandria)
Progress
√ |
Introduced |
X |
Passed Committee |
☐ |
Passed House |
√ |
Passed Senate |
☐ |
Signed by Governor |
☐ |
Became Law |
Description
Wireless telecommunications devices in motor vehicles. Extends prohibition on use of wireless telecommunications devices in motor vehicles to talking on such device, unless the device is configured for hands-free operation and is being used in the hands-free mode effective July 1, 2010. Effective July 1, 2011, penalties for violations will increase from $20 to $100 for a first offense and from $50 to $200 for a second or subsequent offense, there will be an assignment of demerit points, and any violation will be enforced as a primary offense. View Full Text »
Outcome
Bill Has Failed
View Bill's History
Comments
Cell phone bans don't do anything to improve safety! (According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: http://www.iihs.org/news/rss/pr012910.html) Bills like this are a waste of time unless the actual goal is to put more money in the Commonwealth's coffers.
And, since it isn't a primary offense, this bill won't even be good at extorting money from Virginia drivers!